Created in 1951 by A. M. Cassandre for Philips, this original advertising poster presents television as one of the most compelling technologies of the postwar era. Rather than depicting a television set, Cassandre visualizes the experience of receiving an image through electronic transmission.
A male head is constructed from overlapping profiles, photographic elements and sharply defined black forms. At its centre, a single frontal eye becomes the source of a sequence of concentric circles spreading across the composition. These radiating lines suggest broadcast signals, electronic waves and the hypnotic attraction of the television screen.
The pale blue background contrasts with the deep black portrait and dark red typography. The words “Philips” and “Television” are positioned at opposite ends of the poster, allowing the expanding circles to connect the image and the advertising message. The result is both immediately readable and visually enigmatic, combining commercial clarity with a distinctly Surrealist atmosphere.
A. M. Cassandre was the professional name of Adolphe Jean-Marie Mouron, one of the most influential French graphic designers of the twentieth century. Celebrated for iconic posters including Nord Express, Normandie and Dubo Dubon Dubonnet, he transformed modern advertising through monumental typography, geometric construction and simplified imagery. This later design demonstrates how successfully he adapted his visual language to the emerging technologies of the 1950s.
With its exceptional composition and important designer, this original 1951 Philips poster is highly desirable for collectors of Cassandre, vintage electronics advertising and mid-century graphic design. Its compact format and powerful imagery make it an especially striking decorative work for a contemporary interior, office, media room or design collection.
Original Poster
Advertising - Electronics
Good condition
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